She then added that the show's host Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins are key to keeping the atmosphere upbeat in the baking tent.

Mary explained: "Mel and Sue play an immensely important part of the programme. I love it when they are cheeky and everything is right about the show this year.

"We had good weather, the atmosphere is great and in the past, we have lost good bakers because they have fluffed it. But this year, it was so close. We have never had a better final."

This year marks the show's move from BBC Two to the more mainstream and popular BBC One channel.

The fifth series saw over 16,000 wannabe-bakers apply and Mary's fellow judge, Paul Hollywood believes that the standard of applicants this year was "awesome".

He told the newspaper: "The quality and standard of baking this year has been awesome. They still had their faults - but that is what we are there for. Overall, the bakers were incredible and I have loved doing the show. Some did challenge me, which I liked."

Paul then joked: "The atmosphere has been very different too. They really bonded well. They are competitive but they are very supportive. It's cuddlier!"